Allegations Lead To Secretary's Firing

KISSIMMEE — An Osceola County Building Department secretary has been fired amid allegations of theft and falsification of public records.

Debbie Thompson, who had worked at the county since 1979, is considered a suspect in a larceny investigation, sheriff's officials said. She has not been arrested.

She was formally notified of her termination from the county job via certified mail on Nov. 1, according to public records.

''I really don't have anything to say at this time,'' said Thompson, in an interview Tuesday.

Asked if she had been cooperating with investigators, she said ''I've been doing what they're asking me to do, yes.''

She declined further comment.

County officials would not discuss the matter, citing the ongoing investigation. Thompson, who earned $31,576 annually, had been awarded an employee ''Certificate of Appreciation'' in February for submitting a mailroom telephone suggestion.

Her personnel file refers to violations related to theft and fraud in her firing but does not include specifics.